Louisiana Rules on Rent Increases After Accessibility Modifications

If you’re renting in Louisiana and need accessibility modifications—like wheelchair ramps or bathroom grab bars—understanding your rights about rent increases is vital. This guide explains when and how landlords are allowed to raise rent after accessibility upgrades, what state and federal laws cover, and how to respond if your rent goes up.

Understanding Accessibility Upgrades and Rent Increases in Louisiana

Accessibility modifications help ensure rental homes are usable for people with disabilities. Federal and Louisiana law protect tenants from unfair practices, including inappropriate rent increases tied to these upgrades.

What Are Accessibility Upgrades?

• Adding handrails or grab bars
• Installing ramps or accessible doorways
• Lowering cabinets or counters
• Adjusting bathrooms or kitchens for mobility aids

Upgrades may be requested as a reasonable accommodation under the federal Fair Housing Act and Louisiana state law. You have the right to ask for changes allowing you to enjoy your home fully if you have a qualifying disability.

Key Laws Protecting Renters with Disabilities

• The federal Fair Housing Act – prohibits discrimination against renters with disabilities, and requires reasonable accommodations and modifications.
• Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (La. Rev. Stat. § 9:3251 et seq.) – covers the relationship between landlords and renters in Louisiana, including accessibility and rent increases.

Neither the federal Fair Housing Act nor Louisiana law allows a landlord to increase the rent simply because you requested a reasonable accessibility modification. However, landlords can sometimes raise the rent under regular lease renewal or after the lease ends, as long as it’s not for a discriminatory reason.

When Can a Louisiana Landlord Increase Rent After Modifications?

• A landlord may NOT increase rent just because of a disability or because you ask for an accessibility upgrade.
• If an improvement significantly increases the value of the property and was agreed upon with the landlord in writing (for example, the landlord pays for permanent upgrades), a rent increase may be possible upon lease renewal. It cannot be done as an act of discrimination.
• For most modifications to accommodate a disability, you (the renter) may bear the cost, and the landlord cannot raise your rent with in-lease increases for this reason.
• Rent raises must comply with lease terms and state notice requirements (at least 10 days written notice for month-to-month tenancies per La. Rev. Stat. § 9:3251).

Required Forms & How To Use Them

• Reasonable Accommodation or Modification Request (No State Form Number)
  When used: Submit a written request to your landlord, asking for a reasonable modification under the Fair Housing Act. Specify the needed upgrade and why it’s necessary.
  Example: If you need a ramp installed, submit a letter or email stating your request, referencing your right under the Fair Housing Act and Louisiana law. See a sample template from the U.S. Department of Justice.
• Fair Housing Complaint Form (HUD 903 Online/Printable)
  When used: If you suspect your rent was increased after an accessibility request in a discriminatory way, you can file a complaint with HUD.
  How: Submit online or by mail. See the official complaint form and process at HUD.
• Louisiana HUD Office Contact
  Find your local HUD office in Louisiana here.

What To Do If Your Landlord Increases Rent After Accessibility Upgrades

If you receive a notice of rent increase soon after requesting or completing an accessibility modification, here’s what you can do:

• Ask your landlord (in writing) for the reason for the rent increase.
• Compare the increase pattern with comparable tenants or other units—it is not legal for a landlord to single you out because of your disability.
• File a complaint with HUD or the Louisiana Department of Justice’s Fair Housing Division if you suspect discrimination.
• Seek free or low-cost advice from legal aid or tenant advocacy organizations in Louisiana (see resources below).

The Tribunal Handling Housing Disputes in Louisiana

Louisiana does not have a specialized housing tribunal. Rent disputes or complaints over accessibility are often handled in Louisiana district courts, but discrimination complaints are handled by the U.S. Department of Justice Fair Housing Division or HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity.

FAQ: Accessibility Upgrades and Rent Increases in Louisiana

1. Can my landlord raise my rent because I requested a wheelchair ramp?
   No, your landlord cannot increase your rent because you requested a reasonable modification for a disability. Any increase must not be for discriminatory reasons.
2. Who pays for accessibility upgrades in Louisiana rentals?
   Usually, tenants pay for physical modifications unless the landlord agrees otherwise. Landlords cannot charge extra rent or fees solely because of approved modifications.
3. Do I need to return the property to its original condition?
   In most cases, yes—unless you and your landlord agree otherwise. You may be asked to remove modifications at the end of your lease if requested in advance.
4. What should I do if I feel the rent increase is unfair after an upgrade?
   Request written reasons for the increase, compare with other tenants, and file a complaint with HUD or the Louisiana Fair Housing office if you suspect discrimination.
5. Where can I report housing discrimination in Louisiana?
   File a complaint through HUD's online portal or contact the U.S. Department of Justice Fair Housing Division.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana HUD Offices – for reporting discrimination and finding housing help.
• Louisiana District Courts – for rent and lease disputes not involving discrimination.
• Louisiana State Bar Association – Legal Help Page
• U.S. Department of Justice Fair Housing Division
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Information

---

1. Fair Housing Act - U.S. Department of Justice
2. Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (La. Rev. Stat. § 9:3251 et seq.)
3. Louisiana Statutes - Written Notice of Rent Increase

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations